CAL.Regulation
California caps building-permit plan checks at two and makes postentitlement permit violations Housing Accountability Act violations
Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 1621 on September 29, 2026. Local and state agencies may not require more than two plan check and specification reviews for a building permit application. Failing to comply with any postentitlement phase permit requirement in Government Code section 65913.3, subdivisions (b) to (e), now counts as disapproving a housing development project under the Housing Accountability Act.
Enrolled text (California Legislative Information) → · Office of the Governor
Key points
- Agencies may not require or request more than two plan check and specification reviews for a building permit, and may deny a still-noncompliant application.California Legislative Information
- Time limits are tolled only while another independent public agency must review the application under federal or state law; the applicant must be notified.California Legislative Information
- Failing to comply with Government Code section 65913.3(b) to (e) counts as disapproving the housing project under the Housing Accountability Act.California Legislative Information
- Chapter 780, Statutes of 2026, amends Government Code sections 65589.5 and 65913.3; with no urgency clause, it takes effect January 1, 2027.California Legislative Information
Sources2 articles across 2 outlets
California Legislative Information
Office of the Governor